ILLIT say filming “I Got Your Back” offered a standout moment, while “MAMIHLAPINATAPAI” marks a new group look and sound, at KCON LA 2026

ILLIT discussed the production process behind their music video “I Got Your Back” during an appearance at KCON LA 2026, telling Billboard about what they said was their favorite part of filming the video. The group’s remarks focused on the experience of making the visual and performance elements for the track, according to the outlet’s coverage from the convention floor.

In the same Billboard interview at KCON LA 2026, ILLIT also addressed their “MAMIHLAPINATAPAI” mini album, describing it as a different look and sound for them as a group. The comments were tied to how they wanted the release to come across to listeners and how it represents a shift in presentation compared with earlier material, Billboard reported.

The discussion was framed in the context of the band’s ongoing efforts to expand its identity through both music and concept. By discussing the “I Got Your Back” video and the “MAMIHLAPINATAPAI” mini album side by side, the group presented a connected picture of how they approach recording, staging, and the overall package audiences see during promotional cycles.

KCON LA 2026, where the interview took place, is one of the best-known large-scale music and fandom events for K-pop in the United States. Convention appearances like ILLIT’s often serve as a bridge between release promotion and live engagement, with groups using interviews to explain creative decisions to fans who may be watching new music visuals for the first time.

While Billboard’s report centered on the group’s creative perspective, it did not provide detailed production credits, behind-the-scenes logistics, or specific filming locations in the materials available for this write-up. The emphasis remained on ILLIT’s own reflections on the filming experience and on how the mini album’s direction differs, without additional concrete technical details.

For audiences, the comments place “I Got Your Back” and “MAMIHLAPINATAPAI” within a broader narrative about artistic development. For industry watchers, convention-stage media moments can also function as a way for labels and teams to underscore branding consistency, particularly when an act indicates a change in sound or concept through a new mini album.

The Billboard interview was published on August 18, 2026, aligning with the KCON LA 2026 event timeline. As the convention continues, more interviews and performances from participating artists are expected to follow, offering additional context on releases promoted at the show.